The long, hot summer is drawing to an end and some of us might be heaving a sigh of relief! Others might be loving the endless sun and keen to keep that going with a move to southern Europe.
But whether it’s sun, swingeing taxation or just a new start that you seek, September is a great time to start your search for a property abroad. Here are five key reasons why autumn can be an optimal time to head out on a viewing trip.
Fewer crowds, ideal conditions
First, there’s the fact that with the schools back and the crowds reduced, it’s a great time to travel to view properties. Beaches and restaurants are less crowded; hotel and holiday rental prices tend to drop from premium peak summer rates. Driving around is a lot easier. The extreme heatwaves will be over – pleasant autumn sunshine beckons!
Back to business
Then there’s the fact that estate agents, lawyers and other professionals have returned from their summer breaks and are ready to respond. The August break is sacred in Spain and much of the Med, so it’s always a tricky time to get things done – or, to put it bluntly, the market is slow.
Fresh listings – motivated sellers?
It is also a time when new listings become available, as some vendors have bided their time until the summer is over. Some are ready to sell after enjoying ‘one final summer’ in their holiday home; others consider that selling now will mean the deal is done by Christmas. For those vendors who have failed to sell after a quiet summer – well, they may be keener to negotiate than they were six months ago...
Less competition
For serious buyers, it’s a great time to look without the summer tyre kickers. In the spring, there are historically more buyers. So, September going into October is the perfect time for serious, informed buyers.
Holiday rental in mind?
If you are buying a property that you wish to rent out during the peak summer earning period, completing in the autumn or winter gives you plenty of time to furnish it, set up your listing on booking platforms or with agents, and be fully operational for the summer season. Buying in spring instead means probably missing out on most of this.
Start your overseas property search this autumn
Ready to take the first step? Visit A Place in the Sun Live to meet overseas estate agents, get expert advice and start planning your property search face to face.
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